Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

What is PAD?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) develops when arteries in your legs become blocked with plaque or fatty deposits that limit the blood flow. According to the Vascular Disease Foundation, one in every 20 Americans over 50 has PAD.

Signs and Symptoms of PAD

Pain in legs or feet — especially during activity.

Sores or wounds on toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly.

Color changes in the skin of feet.

Lower temperature in one leg or foot.

Treatment Options for PAD

WellStar West Georgia Medical Center offers a variety of treatment options for PAD. The severity of the disease determines the best treatment option. It is diagnosed utilizing ultrasound or angiography.

Lifestyle Modifications — PAD often can be treated with lifestyle changes. A structured exercise program and smoking cessation may be all that is needed to ease the symptoms and prevent further progression of the disease.

Medication — Depending upon the patient's specific health issues, their physician may prescribe medications to control cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, prevent blood clots from forming due to low blood flow and reduce leg pain.

PAD Rehabilitation — Our 12-week PAD Rehab program offers a customized plan for each patient that includes exercise, education and diet recommendations. Under physician direction, an exercise physiologist and registered nurse work directly with patients to achieve their goals.

If you are experiencing PAD symptoms, please discuss your concerns with your physician and ask if you can benefit from our PAD program at WellStar WGMC.